Melbourne’s water storages down to 75.1%, simple actions can protect supplies
The Annual Water Outlook 2026 shows storages are now at 75.1%, down from 86% (approximately 239 billion litres) from the same time last year.
From July 2024 to June 2025, inflows to Melbourne’s storages were 36% below the 30-year average, including the lowest January-June inflows on record.
Hotter and drier weather also saw daily household use rise to 169 litres per person, up from 163 litres the previous year, while almost 38,000 new households joined the city’s water network. Despite recent rainfall, the western region is facing increased pressure due to population growth and dry conditions, and our neighbouring area, Geelong, has received well below-average rainfall and dry conditions.
Despite the decline, water restrictions are not planned for this summer, thanks to a 50-billion litre desalinated water order supplementing supplies and slowing the fall in storages. Yarra Valley Water Managing Director, Natalie Foeng, speaking on behalf of Melbourne’s water corporations, said storages remain secure for now – but conservation is vital to slow the decline.
“Melburnians have always adapted in dry times, and we need to do that again now,” Ms Foeng said.
“Our storages are secure today, but this year’s sharp fall shows how quickly they can drop in dry conditions and when rainfall is low. By using water wisely now, we can avoid or delay restrictions and protect supplies for our growing city.”
Melburnians are reminded to follow Victoria’s Permanent Water Saving Rules, which apply at all times:
• Sprinklers and watering systems can only run between 6pm and 10am
• Hoses must be leak-free with a trigger nozzle for all uses, including washing cars and watering gardens
• Hard surfaces, such as driveways and decks, most not be hosed – use a broom instead
• Fountains and water features must recirculate water
To further reduce household water use, households are encouraged to keep to four-minute showers, brush teeth with the tap off, run full loads in washing machines, choose drought tolerant native plants and mulch gardens, and target no more than 150 litres per person per day.
Melbourne’s Annual Water Outlook is jointly prepared by Greater Western Water, Melbourne Water, South East Water and Yarra Valley Water, in partnership with the Victorian Government.
With dry conditions persisting, the metropolitan water corporations will also release quarterly updates in March, June and September. These updates, available on their websites, will outline current storage levels, customer water use and the latest assessment of any potential water restrictions.